zadocbrown wrote:Here are some ideas for a potential re-testing scheme. It's not a fully worked out scheme, of course, but I think it could create a framework to support the improvements in training we want to see.
It's based around the idea of re-testing every 3 or 10 years, with DSA offering basic and 'advanced' tests, complimented by alternative qualifications from IAM/Rospa etc. Providing for grading of drivers into 3 levels.
Drivers to be licensed as level 1, 2 or 3.
level 1
L test standard. Gained by passing L test, or getting level 1 for check test. Has to be renewed within 3 years. Only allowed to drive low or medium powered vehicles.
level 2
A competent all round performance. Similar to present adi part 2 standard. Gained at check test. To be renewed within 10 years.
level 3
A very high standard of drive. Similar to cardington or DIAmond special. Renewed within 10 years.
IAM/Rospa and similar tests would be accredited as level 2 or 3; providing an alternative pathway for those who prefer a roadcraft based qualification, and who want to make use of the voluntary observed runs.
DSA would offer 2 types of test. The basic L test would be similar to what we have now, perhaps with some improvements, and would still be pass (level 1) or fail.
The DSA 'advanced' test would be longer and more demanding and would give access to the higher grades, as well as level 1 or fail.
For check tests people could choose between simply retaking the L test; or taking the longer test.
After failing a check test, a driver would have 6 months to pass, before reverting to provisional entitlement.
Benefits
1. Doesn't make it more difficult or expensive to get started i.e. pass L test
2. People are not forced to do anything other than maintain the minimum required standard to pass the L-test (can anyone really object to that?)
3. There is a clear incentive to get beyond the basic level (less frequent re-tests, access to wider choice of vehicle)
4. The stage is set to enable insurance companies to determine whether more qualified drivers are a better risk; which could lead to further financial incentives.
5. There is a clear incentive for people to get training if appropriate i.e. to keep their license or grade.
6. People can choose between a test that covers the basics to a high standard (DSA), or one which treats driving as an art (advanced organisations)
7. There is a clear structure around which we could base improvements to or additions to driver training. eg, if we made training compulsory there would be something specific to work towards, and a measurable gain from having achieved it.
Jack Russell wrote:Far too complex!
A gentle campain of encouraging drivers to have a better attitude and to pride themselves in a 'good drive' would have a better effect.
Encouragement in a positive manner would win more support than the thought of endless tests for life.
Do bear in mind that I'm refering to the average driver and not rare driving nuts like us, who'd probably not mind a 3-10 year re-test.
waremark wrote:Jack Russell wrote:Far too complex!
A gentle campain of encouraging drivers to have a better attitude and to pride themselves in a 'good drive' would have a better effect.
Encouragement in a positive manner would win more support than the thought of endless tests for life.
Do bear in mind that I'm refering to the average driver and not rare driving nuts like us, who'd probably not mind a 3-10 year re-test.
Don't believe this is a realistic thing to hope for.
I like Mr ZB's proposal, but don't see any chance of that happening either.
ROG wrote:I found that when I get trainees coming to do their LGV training they 'THINK' about their driving again.
Perhaps we need something that just makes drivers think again about their driving and not just at a proposed retest/assessment time.
What that something should be........ - any thoughts folks
vonhosen wrote:What about people who pass a test in an EU country & are allowed to drive any vehicle that licence covers in the UK until they are 70 ?
waremark wrote:Don't believe this is a realistic thing to hope for.
I like Mr ZB's proposal, but don't see any chance of that happening either.
zadocbrown wrote:vonhosen wrote:What about people who pass a test in an EU country & are allowed to drive any vehicle that licence covers in the UK until they are 70 ?
Leave them alone? We already offer various concessions to drivers from certain countries, for economic reasons I imagine. Mind you, maybe we should be lobbying the other EU countries to follow suit. In which case the anomaly disappears.
ScoobyChris wrote:I like some of the ideas put forward, but my only real concern would be how low or medium powered vehicles are defined and how would this restriction be enforced? I'm guessing power/weight would have to be the restriction to stop people putting average engines (eg 130-150bhp) in kit cars weighing half a tonne
MGF wrote:Wouldn't you need to be resident in another EU country to be entitled to take their driving test? This would normally mean staying for at least 6 months. That is certainly the case when EU residents come to the UK.
I believe the purpose of this is to prevent citizens of the EU shopping around for the easiest test to pass.
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